Gabon head coach Mouyouma Thierry has named Olympique Marseille forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Galatasaray midfielder Mario Lemina, and 24 other players in his provisional squad for the upcoming African World Cup Qualifying Play-off Tournament in Morocco.
The Panthers, along with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions, and DR Congo’s Léopards, secured their spots in the playoffs as the four best second-placed teams from the qualifiers.
Gabon will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the first semifinal of the mini-tournament on November 13 at the Le Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Morocco. The winner will advance to the final to meet the victor of the second semifinal between Cameroon and DR Congo.
Coach Mouyouma released a strong 26-man provisional squad on Thursday, which will later be trimmed to 23 players. The list includes three goalkeepers, ten defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards, led by veteran striker Aubameyang.
Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers: Mbaba Loyce Marius, Bekale François Junior, Mounguenou Mabbyalas Lukas.
Defenders: Antony Oyono, Jérémy Oyono, Johann Obiang, Jacques Ekomie, Appindangoye A., Bruno Ecuele Manga, Yannis M’Bemba, Alex Moucketou, Kila Onfia Mick, Jonathan Do Marcolin.
Midfielders: Mario Lemina, Noha Lemina, Samake Nze, Guelor Kanga, Ibrahim Didier Ndong, André B. Poko
Forwards: Teddy Averlant Andami, Denis Bouanga, Bryan Enzo Meyo Ngoua, Royce Openda, Alan Do Marcolino, Edlin Randy Essang-Matouti, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Despite being considered underdogs on paper, Gabon will be eager to pull off an upset against the three-time Africa Cup of Nations champions when they meet in Morocco.
